If Didier Drogba wears the Bleu-blanc-noir jersey today, it is a little bit thanks to the LA Galaxy. Almost ten years ago, David Beckham signed a five-year Designated Player contract (the first in MLS history). His arrival – and his wife’s, Victoria Beckham – in Hollywood made waves around the footballing world and paved the way for many soccer superstars to join MLS. Los Angeles has definitely taken advantage of the DP rule; here are four superstars who played in the Californian city.
David Beckham (2007-2012)
In 2007, one of soccer’s most recognizable faces left one galaxy to join another. Transferred to Real Madrid from Manchester United in 2003, as the Galáctico era was in full swing with Ronaldo, Zidane, Figo and the likes joining the club, he added a Spanish championship title to his trophy cabinet during his stay at the Santiago Bernabéu before joining LA Galaxy. On the West Coast, Becks lifted the MLS Cup twice (2011 and 2012) and won the Supporters’ Shield twice (2010 and 2011). But above the sporting side of things, he helped MLS raise its profile and visibility all across the globe.
Landon Donovan (2005-2014)
The goal-scoring leader in MLS history with 144 goals in 334 games, and for the US men’s national team with 57 goals in 157 caps, now ranks as a legend for LA Galaxy and the whole league. Donovan has won the MLS Cup six times in his career, more than any other player.
Robbie Keane (depuis 2011)
The Irish captain and ex-Tottenham and Liverpool player (where he played with Steven Gerrard) has found the back of the net 77 times in 112 games for LA Galaxy. He has won three MLS Cups and already is in the league’s history books. Keane will feature for the Republic of Ireland at Euro 2016 and will thus not be in Montreal to play against the Impact on Saturday.
Steven Gerrard (depuis 2015)
A relatively new figure in California, Liverpool’s emblematic and talismanic ex-captain is a big catch for Bruce Arena’s team. So many times a saviour for the club of his heart, like in the 2005 Champions League final (the Miracle of Istanbul) or in the FA Cup final, Gerrard could not carry the Reds to the Premier League title in his 17 years on Merseyside. Still, he helped fill their pedigree with two FA Cups, one UEFA Champions League and one UEFA Cup, as well as scoring a load of spectacular goals.
